Flights to Damascus, Virginia from NT$10,714

We've rounded up all the info you need to make your journey an enjoyable experience. Follow our tips and you'll be speeding through airport security and exploring Damascus in no time at all. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, pack your passport, travel docs, cash and vital medications. Next, you'll want some extra in-flight entertainment to help pass the time. A thrilling novel and a laptop crammed with your favorite shows are always good options. If you hope to take a short nap, a quality neck pillow and some earplugs will also be useful. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some facial wipes to ensure you arrive at your destination looking and feeling fresh.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Put all your full-sized bottles of hair gel and hairspray in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on bag larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) will be confiscated. Sharp objects, like your trusty pocket knife, and products which are flammable or explosive, such as flares, bleaching agents and fireworks, are also restricted.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your main aim is to be as comfortable as you can. Go for easy-to-remove footwear, dress in loose, natural fibers and don't forget to take a sweater in case you get cold in the cabin.
• It's likely you've heard about deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot condition caused by long periods of inactivity. To minimize your risk on board, drink lots of water, consider wearing compression socks and keep your feet and legs moving.

Being prepared before you get to the airport will help make your getaway to Damascus easy and painless. Below are some handy tips for a stress-free journey through security:

• Security personnel first need to know that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you can proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Next up, both you and your hand luggage must be X-rayed. To speed things up, take off anything that might set the alarms off. Items such as your coat, belt and earphones need to go through the machine.
• All electronic devices, including your phone and tablet, are also required to be scanned separately.
• Traveling with your favorite hand and nail cream? As long as the volume is no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it's stored in a clear zip-close bag, it's fine to bring with you in your carry-on.
• Lightweight sneakers are a great footwear choice as you're less likely to be asked to remove them when passing through security. Safety boots and other heavy shoes are usually subjected to additional screening.
• Avoid taking prohibited items in your carry-on bag. If you have any sharp objects like a pocket knife or tools, pack them safely away in your checked luggage. They won't be allowed in the cabin.